Brandon vs James

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Brandon

Boy #230 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"broom-covered hill"

Origin: Old English

Cultural Roots

English American Irish

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#230
Total SSA Count
1,553
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Bran, Brand

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Brandon →

James

Boy #5 Most Popular 1 Syllable

Meaning

"supplanter, one who follows at the heel"

Origin: Hebrew

Cultural Roots

English Scottish Biblical

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#5
Total SSA Count
11,793
Syllables
1
Formality
Formal
Nicknames
Jim, Jimmy, Jamie

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for James →

Popularity Comparison

Brandon Rank #230
James Rank #5

James is more popular, ranked #5 vs #230 for Brandon.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Brandon ___

  • Brandon James
  • Brandon Lee
  • Brandon Scott
  • Brandon Michael
  • Brandon Tyler
  • Brandon Cole

James ___

  • James Alexander
  • James William
  • James Thomas
  • James Edward
  • James Henry
  • James Patrick

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Brandon

Tyler Taylor Jordan Ashley Cody

If you choose James

Charlotte Olivia Emma William Henry

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brandon or James more popular?

James is more popular, ranked #5 compared to Brandon at #230 in the United States.

What do Brandon and James mean?

Brandon means "broom-covered hill" (Old English origin). James means "supplanter, one who follows at the heel" (Hebrew origin).

Are Brandon and James boy or girl names?

Brandon is primarily a boy name. James is primarily a boy name.

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